Living and Working in Citrus Park

A New Florida Millionaire - Alan Crotzer

2008-04-12T22:30:25Z

Better that ten guilty persons escape than that one innocent suffer." William Blackstone

In May of 2007, I wrote a blog about Alan Crotzer. Mr. Crotzer was wrongfully imprisoned for 24 years for a home invasion and the abduction and rape of two women...crimes he did not commit as proven by DNA evidence. He was released from prison in January of 2006 and has been waiting since then for compensation from the State of Florida.

You can read my original blog here for the back story.

Mr. Crotzer has finally received payment of $1.25 million from the State of Florida, equal to $50,000 per year, in exchange for the 24 years of his life spent in prison.

In addition to his millionaire status, Crotzer will also receive free tuition at any state college, university or career center.

Florida finally put to rights a most grievous wrong. Too bad it took them a couple of years to do it.

The Florida Legislature is currently considering a bill that would AUTOMATICALLY compensate some prisoners who have been proven innocent. We'll have to wait and see if that bill passes.

Although I am certain the United States has the very best and most fair criminal justice system in the world, it is not perfect and an alarming number of errors are made. For more information on this topic, check out the Innocence Project -or you can follow the link from my website at http://www.peggyedwards.com. To date, 215 people in the United States have been exonerated by DNA testing, thanks to the Innocence Project.

Mr. Crotzer, may God bless you and your family. I wish you well.

Peggy Edwards, REALTOR
Coldwell Banker - Westchase
(83) 787-2923
www.PeggyEdwards.com

Are You a News Hound Too?

2008-03-02T05:02:59Z

The world has come a long way in communications, haven't we? I still remember the time when my Dad would come home from work and read the "evening" newspaper (I'm pretty sure it was the Washington Post) and watch one newscast on television.

Thanks to Al Gore's invention, we have the luxury of reading news from websites all over the world. Wow!

As members of the real estate industry, we obviously keep up daily with changes in interest rates and the market in general. We can get breaking news sent to our email, PDAs - whichever gadget we choose.

But what websites do you read every day? Which ones help you stay on top of current events? Every day I read the news from two local sites but I have about five national sites that I check out also. With information coming at us fast and furious, I don't want to miss something important and sound uninformed if my customers bring up a topic.

Are you a fan of Forbes? The Wall Street Journal? The Drudge Report? CNN? Fair and Balanced? Please share your favorite news sites with us and give us the URL if it's not obvious.

Inquiring minds want to know!

Peggy Edwards, REALTOR
Coldwell Banker - Westchase
9530 W. Linebaugh Avenue
Tampa, FL 33626
(813) 787-2923

www.PeggyEdwards.com

Name Badges

2008-03-01T22:55:46Z

I am not a "hard sell" person. I'm seriously uncomfortable with that approach and I do not appreciate it when others try to "hard sell" me. Frankly, it's a turn off. Do you feel the same way?

But there are hundreds of opportunities to "gently" let people that you come into contact with every day know you are a REALTOR®...WEAR YOUR NAME BADGE AND REALTOR® PIN.

DO wear your badge/pin wherever you go during the day. This might include:

•1. Grocery shopping

•2. PTA meetings

•3. Car wash

•4. School athletic events

•5. Post office

•6. Mall shopping/browsing

•7. Hair salon

•8. Pedicure/Manicure salon

•9. Coffee shop

•10. Homeowners association meetings

The wearing of your name badge is soft sell all the way. You'd be surprised at the number of total strangers who will see it and strike up a conversation with you about the current market. Wearing your badge is a great segue leading into a comfortable conversation about real estate in general and, of course, it's another opportunity to get your business card into someone's hand.

I still don't know if this is true but I had a trainer tell me that your name badge should always be worn on your right side because most people will shake your right hand with their right hand - and there's your name/affiliation directly in their line of sight.

Stay open and alert to these opportunities - they are out there.

PS: I remember when I first began wearing my name badge outside of the office. I was standing in line at the post office and there was a handsome gentleman in front of me who actually kept turning around to look at me. I thought, "Hey, this badge thing really works. He's going to ask me a real estate question - I just know it!." I was SO excited. After three or four times of him turning around to me, he finally turned one final time and said to me, "I just have to ask you something." I said, "Sure, how can I help you?" He said, "Did you know your name badge is upside down?"

Geez...

Peggy Edwards, REALTOR®
Coldwell Banker - Westchase
9530 W. Linebaugh Avenue
Tampa, FL 33626
(813) 787-2923

http://www.peggyedwards.com/

Did You Rescue Your Pet?

2008-02-20T12:33:06Z

We are trying to get the word out about a VERY IMPORTANT MESSAGE. We urge you to turn up your nose at breeders and rescue your new best friend! There are lots of animals ALREADY BORN who are literally dying for a new home...with you and your family.

Send me an email at peggyedwards@msn.com with a small picture of your rescued animal and I will post it on my website for the world to admire!

My website is www.PeggyEdwards.com. I am a REALTOR who LOVES ANIMALS! Both of my Beagles were rescued - Baxter from the Humane Society of Pinellas and Cooper from Tampa Bay Beagle Rescue.

There is a rescue organization out there for every type of animal. Please give the rescue organizations a chance and adopt from them. Your new best friend will thank you for years to come!

Peggy Edwards, REALTOR
Coldwell Banker
9530 W. Linebaugh Avenue
Tampa, FL 33626
Cell: (813) 787-2923
Website: www.PeggyEdwards.com

REALTORS Are Not Immune to This Market

2008-02-17T09:59:37Z

I've noticed over the past couple of months that lots of REALTORS' homes are being listed on my MLS. Just in the area I watch daily, it seems there are always a couple more homes in the MLS that tell me "Seller is a Licensed Florida REALTOR."

I've also noticed that most of these homes go into the MLS overpriced. Have you seen this in your local market?

Peggy Edwards
COLDWELL BANKER
Tampa, FL
(813) 787-2923

3718 W. Dale Avenue, Tampa, FL 33609

2008-01-31T13:30:50Z

Prime South Tampa Lot - Almost 10,000 Square Feet!!

Location: Grey Gables/Pershing park

Drive slowly down this street and you'll see restored bungalows from the 1940's and gorgeous new two-story homes. This unique property has a 2-bedroom, 1-bath home that was built in 1949 and has never been updated. Plaster walls, wood floors, original kitchen and bath...lots of possibilities! The home is being sold as-is, it just depends on what you're looking for. The property is priced for the land alone. It is a PRIME South Tampa lot that is almost 10,000 square feet! There are lots of mature trees and PLENTY of room for a swimming pool. Or are you looking for a tear-down so you can build your new custom home? You too will want to take a look at this property. It is situated in an old established neighborhood in South Tampa. The schools are great and it is conveniently located to downtown (a 10-minute drive), fabulous shopping, and all area bridges. Come take a look - endless possibilities here!

Information

Contact Information

Peggy Edwards

(813) 787-2923

Pricing

Asking Price: $295,000.00

Flexibility: Negotiable

Property Location

3718 Dale Avenue
Tampa, Florida 33609

Links

Website

Features

Bedrooms: 2

Bathrooms: 1

Year Built: 1949

Subdivision: Grey Gables/Pershing Park

Lot Size: 75' x 131'

Garage Size: 1

School District: Plant HS

Square Footage: 1000

Agent Name: Peggy Edwards

Broker: Coldwell Banker

Attributes

Appliances

Range/Oven

Full Refrigerator

Washer/Dryer

Dishwasher

Interior Amenities

Hardwood Floors

Exterior Amenities

Fenced Yard

Grass Lawn

Tool Shed

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

VFLYER ID: 1072122

Finisterra Condominiums in Shalimar, Florida

2007-08-04T19:51:05Z

Instead of boring the world with a long story (with many bunny trails that meander off from the main subject), I will give you a short version of the travesty of justice going on in Shalimar, Florida.

Finisterra Condominiums were built in the 1970's. The property is prime, I mean really prime, near the Shalimar Yacht Basin. The property has three sides to the water.

In a nutshell, over 140 owners (many retired and on a fixed income) are about to be thrown out of their own condos due to nonpayment of construction liens. Finisterra was hit hard by Hurricane Ivan a couple of years ago. Finisterra's insurance company paid Finisterra for the damages, but the money never reached the contractor. All of the unit owners have been assessed a payment of over $20,000 due by September 4^th, or foreclosure proceedings will begin. I won't go into the details of pending lawsuits and theft and mismanagement of funds but all of these items play into this scenario.

QUESTION: Are any ActiveRainers familiar with what is going on at Finisterra? I am interested in speaking with REALTORS® , inspectors, mortgage experts, and attorneys.

Time is truly of the essence! Feel free to call me at (813) 787-2923 or email me at PeggyEdwards@msn.com. Anything you tell me will remain confidential unless you give me permission otherwise. Thank you!

Congratulations to Mark Blasi!

2007-08-02T20:13:42Z

ActiveRain's own Marc Blasi is one of the real estate "rookies" highlighted in the July 2007 Florida Realtor Magazine. The article, " Smart Starts: Rookie Success Stories", is written by Michele Lerner. Marc has already sold $1.3 million worth of real estate! (That doesn't sound like a rookie to me). He is both a Licensed Florida Mortgage Broker and REALTOR® in Palm Beach, Florida. Congratulations Marc. We're proud of you!

Peggy Edwards, REALTOR
Citrus Park/Westchase, Florida
(813) 787-2923
www.PeggyEdwards.com

"Opening Doors for You in Citrus Park, Westchase, and Surrounding Communities"

Thunderstorm Voo-Doo?

2007-07-31T19:13:44Z

I was awakened this morning about 12:30 a.m. by an enormous flash of lightning that I could see through my closed and sleeping eyelids.

It was incredibly bright!

Beside me, my oldest Beagle, Baxter, was shaking like a leaf and panting horribly. He was not afraid of thunderstorms until Florida was hit by a succession of hurricanes a couple of years ago. Now he shakes, rattles and rolls every time it thunders (which is a LOT during a Florida summer!)

I called my daughter in Pacifica, California because she's worked around animals all her life - plus it was only 9:30 pm in California...

She told me to rub Baxter all over with a dryer sheet. Huh? Did I hear that right?

She repeated her instruction, I said OK, hung up the phone, and dutifully rubbed my shaking, shivering, scared-to-death dog with a dryer sheet. He loved it...

He immediately stopped shaking. He stopped whimpering. He stopped panting and drooling. He went back to sleep!

I know a miracle when I see one!

We slept right through the remainder of the storm.

I checked around on the Internet and the theory is that the static electricity produced by an oncoming thunderstorm makes animals VERY uncomfortable. All I know is...it works! If it's voo-doo...who cares?

Peggy Edwards, REALTOR
Citrus Park & Westchase, Florida
(813) 787-2923
www.PeggyEdwards.com

Blogging for Dummies (A Quick Review)

2007-07-29T20:01:40Z

I learned so much about the blogosphere from reading Blogging for Dummies by Brad Hill. This book stays true to the established form of the extremely popular "dummies" series published by Wiley Publishing Co. It is chock full of helpful information about everything you wanted to know about blogging....but were afraid to ask!

The first few chapters contain basic technical answers about blogging - entries, posts, indexes, archives, etc. After you get through the easy stuff, you progress to well thought out (and sometimes humorous) ideas about blogging options, finding your voice, TrackBacks explanations, and blog promotion, to name but a few of the topics covered.

If you get this far into the book, you'll then be treated to RSS Feeds, good citizenship in the blogosphere, pod casting, photoblogging (this is usually what we see in ActiveRain), audioblogging, and lots more great information.

While reading the Glossary, I found a few terms with which I was unfamiliar and wanted to share them with you.

Blogathy - when you become apathetic about posting in your blog (been there, done that)
Blogorrhea - too much insubstantial blogging (we've all certainly seen this particular disease)
Blogroach - a derogatory term denoting a blog reader who crawls through comment sections leaving unnecessary comments (yup)
Fisk - to viciously deconstruct a blog post written by somebody else (it is a common blogging style but definitely not for me)
Post - this was interesting. When used as a verb, bloggers post entries (your entry is not called a blog, it is called a post); used as a noun, bloggers put their posts in their blogs (get it?)
Vlog - a video blog

This book is a steal at $21.99. You'll keep this one in your professional library and will refer to it often. I guarantee it!

Peggy Edwards, REALTOR®
Citrus Park/Westchase, Florida
(813) 787-2923
www.PeggyEdwards.com

"Opening Doors for You in Citrus Park, Westchase, and Surrounding Communities"

My Legacy: With All Its Sham, Drudgery, and Broken Dreams, It is Still a Beautiful World

2007-07-24T23:59:31Z

Merriam Webster defines LEGACY as follows: "anything handed down from the past, as from an ancestor or predecessor." So what intangible things am I going to hand down to my family, colleagues, and friends? What lasting images and thoughts will come to mind when people think of me? How will I be remembered?

With fondness? (Probably)
With love? (Hopefully)
With amusement? (Most definitely!)

I can only state what I HOPE they will remember when they think of me, based upon how I lived my life and how I treated others.

The first is that KINDNESS IS REALLY IMPORTANT. Not fake friendships or lip service, but real honest-to-goodness kindness and caring for other living creatures. Kindness goes a long way with me. So much so that I don't trust people who are not kind to children and animals. Period. Kindness is contagious and I taught my kids, Beki and Ryan, the importance of being kind to themselves and to others early on. A helping hand is never wasted. A pleasant smile, saying "please" and "thank you", sharing your time, a little boost up when needed...you never know what effect your kindness may have on others. I have been the recipient of pure kindness several times in my life...when I needed it the most. (It's amazing how you get what you need in this life...when you need it). Try a little kindness and it will be passed on!

The second is my belief that CONTINUOUS LEARNING IS KEY. And I don't necessarily mean formal education. Try to be the very best at whatever profession you have chosen. I believe that education and learning are the answers to many of society's current maladies. If you're having a specific problem and you seem "stuck" in life, get educated and learn everything there is to know about the issue, THEN make your best decision and move on. Education takes MANY forms and there is a lot of information out there for the asking. READ AND ASK QUESTIONS! CONTINUE TO LEARN no matter what your age! Don't be a victim!

Finally, WE ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR OURSELVES. We are responsible for our own actions and decisions. Each life takes its own twists and turns - some bad situations might have come about based on decisions made when we were young. Some might not have been of our own making. But our actions and decisions are our own. In a bad marriage? Take steps to get out of it. Kids out of control? Try tough love. Having trouble making ends meet? Get a second job. Hurt someone's feelings? Apologize. You alone are responsible for yourself. Taking responsibility shows that you respect yourself. How you solve life's problems tells a lot about you as a human being. And if you do it right, you'll be a great example and inspiration for your children.

We only have this one existence (that we know of). IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: But if we do happen to come back around again, I would like to make a special request that I come back as one of my pets. Sleep until noon, lounge by the pool, eat whenever I want, and be loved unconditionally no matter how chubby I get. Not a bad gig!

Life can be an up and down journey, but it's important to remember to make the most of it, appreciate it, be thankful for it and love it. How? By being true to ourselves and doing the right thing. Always.

P.S. Desiderata is my very favorite poem and encompasses my life philosophy completely. I want the tenets of Desiderata to be my legacy to my family and friends. Feel free to PASS IT ON! After researching, I believe this poem has been forfeited into the public domain.

Max Ehrmann's Desiderata
1927

Go placidly amid the noise and haste,
and remember what peace there may be in silence.
As far as possible without surrender
be on good terms with all persons.
Speak your truth quietly and clearly;
and listen to others,
even the dull and the ignorant;
they too have their story.

Avoid loud and aggressive persons,
they are vexations to the spirit.
If you compare yourself with others,
you may become vain and bitter;
for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.
Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.
Keep interested in your own career, however humble;
it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.
Exercise caution in your business affairs;
for the world is full of trickery.
But let this not blind you to what virtue there is;
many persons strive for high ideals;
and everywhere life is full of heroism.
Be yourself.
Especially, do not feign affection.
Neither be cynical about love;
for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment
it is as perennial as the grass.
Take kindly the counsel of the years,
gracefully surrendering the things of youth.
Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune.
But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings.
Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.
Beyond a wholesome discipline,
be gentle with yourself.
You are a child of the universe,
no less than the trees and the stars;
you have a right to be here.
And whether or not it is clear to you,
no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.
Therefore be at peace with God,
whatever you conceive Him to be,
and whatever your labors and aspirations,
in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams,
it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful.
Strive to be happy.

Peggy Edwards, REALTOR®
Citrus Park and Westchase, Florida
(813) 787-2923
www.PeggyEdwards.com

"Opening Doors for You in Citrus Park, Westchase, and Surrounding Communities"

Do You Love a Great Steak? Check Out Longhorn Steakhouse in Citrus Park!

2007-07-24T18:44:06Z

They're ALWAYS glad to see you at the Longhorn Steakhouse. This western-style steakhouse is directly across the street from the Westfield Citrus Park Town Center. We recently celebrated my husband Barry's 52^nd birthday here and we had a blast! Barry believes that Longhorn has the best steaks in town and always wants to dine here for special occasions.

The walls are COVERED with western paraphernalia but be warned....a vegetarian member of your party may be a little "put off" by the dead creatures mounted on the walls...but, hey, it's a western steakhouse!

Longhorn offers a full bar and tempting appetizers such as Firecracker Chicken Wraps, Wild West Shrimp (yummy!) and Longhorn Shrimp and Lobster Dip (you can make a meal out of any of these appetizers).

Our steaks were cooked to perfection, our server (Joel) was attentive and fun. The bread was fresh-baked from the oven, and the beer was ice cold! Joel also made sure that Barry ended his meal with an ice cream sundae and a (hopefully embarrassing - that was my intent anyway) rousing Happy Birthday tune performed Longhorn style. Yee-haw!

Address: 8212 Citrus Park Drive, Tampa, FL 33625

Phone: (813) 926-7803

Peggy Edwards, REALTOR®
Citrus Park/Westchase, Florida
(813) 787-2923
www.PeggyEdwards.com

"Opening Doors for You in Citrus Park, Westchase, and Surrounding Communities"

Life's Little Pleasures

2007-07-20T10:24:40Z

I'll admit it from the get-go....I am a glass "full" kind of person. Sure I have my share of heartache and sadness, but I am always hopeful of better things just around the corner.

I am spending time today catching up on my paperwork (never ending!) and opened a drawer and found... an unopened bag of dark chocolate M & M's. They were a nice surprise!

Then I remembered yesterday evening as I was sitting on the patio and the sky was all pink and yellow - almost sepia toned (probably pollution but who cares?). My Mom used to call that "the gloaming", and it was a beautiful sight!

Earlier this morning, I found both of my Beagles AND the cat lying at the food of my bed sound asleep, all lined up like sausages with their sides touching. My kitty was in the middle and it brought a smile to my face.

I had to make a quick trip to my office this morning and when I started up the car I noticed that someone (my husband) had filled up my gas tank. It was almost empty yesterday and I did not ask him to do that. What a great way to start the day!

I've learned through the years that if I just stay mindful and "in the moment", life provides lots of small pleasures each day that serve to fill that glass to the rim.

Look around you and pay attention. What are some of your small but important daily pleasures?

Peggy Edwards
Citrus Park and Westchase REALTOR®
Coldwell Banker
Tampa, Florida
(813) 787-2923
www.PeggyEdwards.com

"Opening Doors For You In Citrus Park, Westchase, and Surrounding Communities"

Handy Hillsborough County Phone Numbers and Website Addresses

2007-07-18T22:07:09Z

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, FLORIDA
HELPFUL PHONE NUMBERS/WEBSITE ADDRESSES

Are you making a move to Hillsborough County in Tampa, Florida? Here is a quick list of important phone numbers to make life a little easier for you. Keep this list handy!

Hillsborough County
(813) 272-5900
www.hillsboroughcounty.org
Driver's License/Car Registration
(813) 635-5200
www.hillstax.org
Pet Licenses
(813) 744-5660
www.hillsboroughcounty.org

Voter Registration
(813) 272-5850
www.votehillsborough.org

Public Schools
(813) 272-4000
www.sdhc.k12.fl.us
UTILITIES:
Bright House Networks, Cable TV
(813) 684-6400
www.tampabay.mybrighthouse.com
GAS & ELECTRICITY:
Florida Power
(800) 700-8744
www.progress-energy.com
Peace River Electric Cooperative (PRECO)
(800) 282-3824
www.preco.org
Tampa Electric (TECO)
(888) 223-0800
www.tampaelectric.com

TECO Peoples Gas
(813) 275-3700
www.peoplesgas.com

Verizon (Telephone)
(800) 483-4000
www.verizon.com
Waste Removal/Recycling
(813) 272-5680
www.hillsboroughcounty.org

Please contact me if I can assist you with your move to beautiful Tampa Bay. I focus on the areas in Citrus Park, Westchase, and the surrounding communities.

Peggy Edwards, REALTOR®
Coldwell Banker
(813) 787-2923
Website: www.PeggyEdwards.com
Email: PeggyEdwards@msn.com

9628 Charlesberg Drive, Tampa, FL 33635

2007-07-13T12:27:37Z

Charleston Place Townhomes is a 2 year old Lennar-built community snuggled right up to Westchase. The good news is you can live near and take advantage of all the Westchase amenities but you don’t have the added hassle of community development fees…how great is that? Charleston Place Townhomes is a small community that is big on VALUE! There are lush conservation areas surrounding the property so the feeling is one of security and seclusion. Your own private oasis amid all of the hustle and bustle of northwest Hillsborough County.

This town home boasts 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms on the second floor and there is a bonus room that can be used as a den, library, third bedroom, or it would make a perfect spot for your home office. The first floor has a half bath for the convenience of your visitors.

The modern kitchen has beautiful dark granite countertops, real wood cabinets, all black appliances, and upgraded tile flooring. There is also a nice sized separate dining room with a convenient pass-through to the kitchen. Amenities for this community include a clubhouse, lighted tennis courts, playground with picnic tables and a sparkling blue community pool. This is a deed-restricted area so the lawns and landscaping are always in perfect condition.

Being next to Westchase, fine dining, grocery shopping, the public library, bars, and quaint shops are just seconds away. And this area has excellent public schools! This gorgeous town home at 9628 Charlesberg Drive is being offered at $215,000. Please give me a call if you would like a private tour. I look forward to meeting you!

Peggy Edwards, REALTOR®
Citrus Park/Westchase, Florida
Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate
www.PeggyEdwards.com
(813) 787-2923

Afraid to Dive Into The Real Estate Pool?

2007-07-09T22:11:00Z

Don't Be!

It would be unwise to take too much to heart the many naysayers' laments that real estate has tanked in Hillsborough County, Florida. Sure, it's a Buyers' Market, and, yes, it will take 1-1/2 years to sell off all of the existing inventory. But the good news is we have strong job growth in our area, mortgage rates are low, and the investors are all but gone.

Are you a seller wondering if now is the right time to place your home on the market?
Are you ready to move up....or downsize?
Are you living in a cramped apartment and want to experience the pride of owning your very own home?

I believe that it is nearly impossible to "time the market." And I'm here to advise you that a FLAT or SLOW market does not matter (very much) and should not be causing you to lose sleep at night wondering when to dive into the real estate pool.

Here's why...

It was reported in the GTAR News, July 2007, (article by Bill Hunt), that Dr. Lawrence Yun, Managing Director and Senior Economist for the National Association of Realtors recently stated in a local presentation that "the strong job growth in the local market, stable mortgage rates, and the departure of investors and speculators from the market as strong factors that will continue to fuel local real estate." Dr. Yun is certainly correct about job growth, mortgage rates, and the demise of investors/speculators in the Tampa Bay market.

If you are a first time homebuyer, you will be able to obtain more house than you thought you could afford at a reasonable price. Remember that interest rates are still at historic lows!

If you have found your dream home but need to sell your present property, any amount you may "lose" on the sale of your home will be recouped by the amount of money you "save" on your new purchase.The same idea follows for those empty nesters who want to sell the "big house" and move to a condominium or smaller home.

In my opinion, the only "swimmers" who should not dip their toes in the water just yet are sellers who are moving into rentals - and really, how many of you are there? I would advise you to wait until 2008 to list your home. Any loss you might take on your sale at the present time cannot be recouped.

Westchase is located approximately 12 miles northwest of Tampa. It is divided into separate and distinct neighborhoods - all price ranges are represented and each neighborhood is simply lovely:

Abbotsford
Arlington Park
Bennington
Berkeley Square
Brentford
Bridges
Castleford
Chelmsford
Classic Townhomes of West Park Village
Enclave
Glencliff
Glenfield
Greens
Harbor Links/Estates
Keswick Forest
Kingsford
Radcliffe
Saville Rowe
Shires
West Park Village- Single Family
Stamford
Townhomes of West Park Village
Traditional Townhomes of West Park Village
Tree Tops
Village Green
Villas of West Park Village
Vineyards
Woodbay
Worthington
Wycliff

The Westchase area of Hillsborough County, Florida offers many beautiful homes and communities from which to choose. As a buyer, the possibilities are almost endless. You owe it to yourself to see what properties are available right now. Westchase offers tons of amenities and its location in northwest Hillsborough County is ideally situated. Westchase gives you easy access to the white sandy beaches of Pinellas County, downtown Tampa (via the Veterans Expressway), Tampa International Airport, Westfield Citrus Park Mall, International Plaza, and all area bridges.

Westchase offers:

Golfcourse

Swim Club

Shopping

Dining

Playgrounds

Community Pools

Many gated communities

Parks, lakes, and gorgeous conservation areas

Public schools located within the Westchase community

Hillsborough County Public Library

Westchase has it all!

So what are you waiting for? Dive in......the water's fine!

Please contact me if you are interested in the Westchase/Citrus Park area of Hillsborough County. It would be my pleasure to assist you and your family!

Peggy Edwards
Coldwell Banker Residential Services
Citrus Park/Westchase, Florida
"Opening Doors For You in Citrus Park, Westchase, and Surrounding Communities"
www.PeggyEdwards.com
(813) 787-2923

If You're Over 50....Read This.....AND ROCK ON!!!!!!!!!!!

2007-07-07T05:48:33Z

We're Having a Heatwave!!!!!!

The Weather Channel reported that July 6, 2007, was a day for breaking records:

Missoula, Montana recorded a new all-time record high of 107
Death Valley, California reached a new daily record high of 129
Salt Lake City, Utah recorded a new high of 103
Las Vegas, Nevada also recorded a new daily record high of 115

And I thought Florida was hot in the mere 90 degrees range!

I was born and raised in Washington, D.C. and have always been partial to Motown music (can you say DC Stomp?) Check out this video from Martha and the Vandellas from 1965! Turn up your speakers and STAY COOL!

Peggy Edwards, Realtor
Citrus Park/Westchase, Florida
www.PeggyEdwards.com
(813) 787-2923

New Clinical Trial Approved by FDA for St. Joseph's Cancer Institute in Tampa, Florida

2007-07-05T20:59:34Z

St. Joseph's Cancer Institute in Tampa, Florida, has received permission from the Food and Drug Administration to offer a potential new therapy to treat breast cancer that has become advanced liver cancer.

The new treatment is called SIRT (Selective Internal Radiation Therapy) and it is hoped that the treatment will kill tumors selectively without harming the liver.

The cost for the therapy will be about $50,000 and, since Medicare has indicated it will pay for the treatment, we can hope most insurance companies will follow suit. You can contact St. Joseph's Hospital at (813) 870-4160 with any questions you may have.

Read the full story at St. Petersburg Times Online.

Please click! You will be taken to the Breast Cancer Site. Thank you!

Peggy Edwards, Realtor
Citrus Park/Westchase, Florida
www.PeggyEdwards.com
(813) 787-2923

3022 Endsley Road, Brooksville, FL 34604

2007-07-05T18:20:33Z

Almost 3 Acres in a Peaceful, Rural Setting in Hernando County

Location: Brooksville, Florida

Looking for a beautiful parcel of land in the country to build your new home? This homesite is in Brooksville. Tampa is only 35 minutes away thanks to the convenience of the Suncoast Parkway. The property is "L"-shaped, and there is a large but older mobile home on site that is livable (as-is) while you build your new home on this pretty piece of land. Although the mobile home is included, the value is in the property itself. Owners currently share a well with a neighbor, but you will need to dig your own well. Many beautiful homes have been built in this rustic setting - will yours be one of them?

Photo Gallery

Information

Contact Information

Peggy Edwards

(813) 787-2923

peggyedwards@msn.com

Pricing

Asking Price: $105,000.00

Flexibility: Negotiable

Additional Pricing Information: Just reduced to $105K for quick sale!

Property Location

3022 Endsley Road
Brooksville, Florida 34604

Features

Acreage: 2.6

Zoning: Residential

Sewerage: Septic Tank

Water: Well

Agent Name: Peggy Edwards

Broker: Coldwell Banker

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

VFLYER ID: 1072116

8806 Bayaud Drive, Tampa, FL 33626

2007-07-05T15:58:55Z

Fawn Ridge Beauty in Citrus Park, Florida - Just Reduced to $324,900

Location: Fawn Ridge

4 BR, 2.5 BA Fawn Ridge beauty. Upgrades galore! Gorgeous 2-story home, custom-built in 2005, convenient to everywhere you need to be...upscale shopping mall, Tampa International Airport, Veterans Expressway, downtown Tampa. Low HOA dues (under $300 annually) and no CDD fees. Call the movers - this one is move-in ready!

Photo Gallery

Information

Contact Information

Peggy Edwards

(813) 787-2923

peggyedwards@msn.com

Pricing

Asking Price: $324,900.00

Flexibility: Negotiable

Additional Pricing Information: All appliances convey. Hot tub for backyard is available and negotiable

Property Location

8806 Bayaud Drive
Tampa, FL 33626

Features

Bedrooms: 4

Bathrooms: 2.5

Year Built: 2005

Subdivision: Fawn Ridge

Garage Size: 2-car (oversized)

Square Footage: 2,020

Agent Name: Peggy Edwards

Broker: Coldwell Banker

MLS #: T2221607

Attributes

Appliances

Range/Oven

Full Refrigerator

Washer/Dryer

Dishwasher

Sink Disposal

Microwave

Interior Amenities

Fireplace

Hardwood Floors

Security System

Exterior Amenities

Fenced Yard

Grass Lawn

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

VFLYER ID: 1072124

Monday's Child is Fair of Face by Mother Goose

2007-07-05T14:51:31Z

Monday's child is fair of face,
Tuesday's child is full of grace,
Wednesday's child is full of woe,
Thursday's child has far to go.
Friday's child is loving and giving,
Saturday's child works hard for a living,
But the child born on the Sabbath Day,
Is fair and wise and good and gay.

By Mother Goose

Remember this nursery rhyme? What day of the week were you born? Check out this perpetual calendar just for fun!

Peggy Edwards, Realtor
Citrus Park/Westchase Realtor
www.PeggyEdwards.com
(813) 787-2923

Great Customer Service? You Betcha!

2007-07-05T11:53:56Z

WWW.ConnectUtilities.Com is one-stop shopping for your buyers and sellers. They can order new service or disconnect existing service for their power, phone, newspaper, cable, and other needed home services right over the Internet.

Instead of calling each provider separately and setting up those appointments one by one, your clients can take care of EVERYTHING all at once! That's what I call GREAT CUSTOMER SERVICE!

And they'll have YOU to thank!

I have included the link to www.connectutilities.com as a separate page on my website, but you can also offer this information in your printed materials you provide to your buyers and sellers.

I'm always on the lookout for good information for my customers - anything to make their transition easier. So if you know of any other consumer-friendly websites, please share!

Peggy Edwards, Realtor|
Citrus Park/Westchase, Florida
www.PeggyEdwards.com
(813) 787-2923

Are You Superstitious?

2007-07-04T21:12:37Z

This Saturday is July 7, 2007. 7/7/07.

Triple Sevens!

According to recent media buzz, a lot of people think it's going to be a VERY lucky day. Casinos around the country are gearing up for huge crowds. Gambling junket reservations are way up.

A Tennessee football stadium will host Christians for a prayer fest because 7/7/07 has good Biblical implications for many.

The wedding website, The Knot, reports that an average number for weddings of its members on a Saturday in the summer is around 12,000. But on 7/7/07, over 35,000 Knot members will wed.

Are there that many superstitious people in this world? Or, could there be something to this?

I don't consider myself superstitious.....but, to hedge my bets, I DO think an open house and a lottery ticket purchase on 7/7/07 might be in order!

What are your thoughts?

Peggy Edwards, Realtor®
Citrus Park/Westchase, Florida
www.PeggyEdwards.com
(813) 787-2923

Family Disaster Plan Website for Floridians

2007-07-02T22:48:31Z

It is hurricane season in Florida. We KNOW they are coming. We just don't know WHEN they will hit.

The Florida Division of Emergency Management sponsors a must-visit website called www.FloridaDisaster.org that helps you create your family's disaster plan in advance. And that is a smart thing to do to make sure your home, family, and pets remain safe when a disaster strikes. It takes about 10 to 15 minutes for you to input information about your home and family. You will be rewarded with a personalized Family Disaster Plan that you can print out.

Your personalized plan will include:

Recommended amounts of food and water to stock based upon your family's size.
Local emergency contact information and evacuation zones for your specific area.
Checklists of important steps to take before, during, and after a disaster.

(Photo courtesy of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration).

Get prepared BEFORE the hurricanes come. It's not a question of IF...it's a matter of WHEN.

Peggy Edwards, Realtor®
Citrus Park/Westchase, Florida
www.PeggyEdwards.com
(813) 787-2923

Flying Out Of Tampa International Airport? Get There Early

2007-07-02T22:09:17Z

My sister Colleen is flying out of Tampa International Airport EARLY tomorrow morning to be with her husband who is undergoing surgery on Thursday in Pensacola, Florida.

I checked with the airport and, because of the recent attack at an airport in Scotland, security is being stepped up at airports all over our nation.

So, instead of arriving one hour prior to her departure time, she needs to arrive TWO HOURS before her flight takes off! (International flyers need to arrive THREE HOURS prior to departure). And, I was reminded that cars are being arbitrarily stopped on the parkway for inspection.

I am glad that Tampa International Airport is serious about their passengers' security - and a little less sleep seems a small price to pay in order to keep everyone safe.

Peggy Edwards, Realtor
Citrus Park/Westchase, Florida
www.PeggyEdwards.com
(813) 787-2923